What should you look for when hiring an AI speaker?

When hiring an AI speaker, it is important to look beyond someone who simply talks enthusiastically about ChatGPT or demonstrates a few impressive tools. A good AI speaker helps your audience understand what artificial intelligence actually means for their work, organization, sector and future. The speaker should inspire, but also provide direction.

First, look for real subject-matter expertise. AI is developing quickly, so a speaker should not rely on generic trends or superficial examples. They should be able to explain what generative AI, automation and intelligent systems mean for decision-making, workflows, skills, leadership and ethics. A strong AI keynote connects technology to the real everyday practice of people and organizations.

Audience fit is also essential. A keynote for executives requires a different angle than a session for teachers, healthcare professionals, marketers or operational teams. Always check whether the AI speaker can adapt the story to your sector, level and goal. A good speaker makes AI recognizable by using examples that match the daily reality of the audience.

Practical relevance is another key criterion. After a strong AI talk, people should not only feel inspired, but also understand what they can do next. This may include working smarter with AI, asking better questions, improving workflows, experimenting responsibly and creating clear agreements within teams.

A good example of an AI speaker who does this well is Robbert van Empel. In his talks, he combines strategic interpretation with practical examples. As the author of De Grote Verandering, Vraag het AI / Ask AI and De AI Basisgids voor Leraren, he shows that AI is not only a technological topic, but a fundamental shift in work, learning and organization.

When hiring an AI speaker, choose someone who speaks clearly, realistically and practically. The best AI keynote does not only show people what AI can do, but helps them understand how to use it wisely.